Assemblyman points out cost-saving measures that will allow tax breaks

October 27, 2009

Assemblyman James N. Tedisco (R,I,C-Schenectady/Saratoga) today called for specific exemptions to the increases in driver license and registration fees implemented as part of the 2009-10 state budget. Tedisco wants to alleviate some of the new burdens being forced upon those living on limited or fixed incomes, such as seniors and the disabled. To pay for these proposals, funding would come from a prohibition on the purchase of new state vehicles and by charging inmates on a sliding scale for their incarceration.

“State legislative leaders and the Governor continue their effort to tax and spend us out of an economic crisis. When will they see what is so apparent to the rest of us: it isn’t working? The people of this state cannot afford one more dime, especially those with fixed incomes who receive the same amount month after month regardless of their skyrocketing expenses,” said Tedisco.

Tedisco reminded everyone that effective September 1, driver license and vehicle registration fees increased 25 percent. Adding insult to injury, effective April 1, 2010 all registered vehicles will be required to get new license plates and renewed registrations forcing motorists to pay even more.

“If I had my way, the Governor and Legislature would repeal all these new fees, but at the very least there should be exceptions for our seniors and disabled motorists who cannot necessarily go get a second job to pay for the state’s latest demand for money. They should not be forced to cut corners on important items, such as medicine or food, just to keep a vehicle on the road,” said Tedisco. “If the Governor must impose these fees, he should exempt those who can least afford them.”

“The state spent $23 million on requests for new vehicles last year. By placing a prohibition on the purchase of new state vehicles for five years, exempting safety and security needs, these funds can cover the cost of new plates for our seniors and disabled drivers. Our state can save even more by implementing the Madoff bill, which requires inmates with the financial means to pay on a sliding scale for their stay in prison,” said Tedisco.

“Cutting back on state spending is the right way to help this state and its citizens. If we stop hitting New Yorkers with new taxes and fees every time they turn around, people may actually be able to start spending money at our local businesses and once again begin investing in our great state,” concluded Tedisco.